The St Kilda Football Club advises Paddy McCartin will step off the club’s playing list for the 2020 season to focus his energy and endeavours on his rehabilitation and wellbeing.

The 23-year-old remains committed to doing everything possible to resume his senior AFL career at the end of 2020.

Despite not officially holding a spot on St Kilda’s list next season, McCartin will continue to undertake his rehabilitation program at RSEA Park under the guidance of St Kilda’s medical team, as well as a number of specialists who have been assisting in his rehabilitation and treatment over the past nine months.

General Manager of Football Simon Lethlean said the club would continue to support the key forward. 

“We have been working closely with Paddy, his loved ones, his doctors and his management for some time,” Lethlean said.

“We feel it is important for Paddy to focus solely on his physical and mental wellbeing without the pressure of returning to senior football in the 2020 season.

“This decision gives him the best opportunity to ultimately resume his career, with the club open to re-listing Paddy should he be healthy and physically ready to attack a pre-season at the end of 2020, and play senior football in 2021.

“As Paddy explained during the year, this injury has had a significant impact on his life, and general health and wellbeing.

“It has been a difficult time for him, his family, the people close to him, and for his teammates, coaches and support staff who know how hard he has worked to put himself in a position to succeed at the elite level.

“He is a really popular member of our playing group, and we saw during the 2019 pre-season what sort of footballer he was becoming.

“We also wish to recognise that Paddy has not only considered what is best for himself, but also what is best for the club in coming to this tough decision. This is commendable and we thank him for that.

“The club has also committed to assisting him with activities and pursuits of interest to him both within football and outside of football as part of his focus over the next 12 months."